Devices and methods for restoring spinal movement and function

ABSTRACT

A spinal unloading system generally includes a harness configured to wrap around a human patient&#39;s lumbar or cervical region and including multiple attachment points for connecting elastomeric bands. Elastomeric bands exert pulling forces in a variety of directions, depending on specific placement, and serve to unload the spine and/or provide resistance while performing the method.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application 62/793,502 entitled DEVICES AND METHODS FOR RESTORING SPINAL MOVEMENT AND FUNCTION, which was filed Jan. 17, 2019, and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to physical therapy, and more specifically, to devices and systems that unload a human spine, and associated exercises, for relieving pain, maintaining and improving muscle and postural balance, and maintaining and improving core strength.

Back pain is a miserable reality for many people. It is one of the leading causes of missed work, and the second leading cause for visits to the doctor's office, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. One-half of all working Americans admit to having back pain symptoms each year. It is estimated that approximately 80% of the population will experience a back problem at some time in their lives, and that Americans spend at least $50 billion each year on back pain.

Most cases of back pain have a mechanical or non-organic origin, versus a medical origin. Examples of mechanical or non-organic origins include sprained ligaments, strained muscles, ruptured discs, and irritated joints arising from anything from sports injuries to accidents to everyday activities such as getting out of a car. Conditions such as poor posture, obesity and psychological stress can also cause or exacerbate back pain. Examples of medical origins of back pain include arthritis, infection, fracture, bone loss, cancer, blood clots, and even kidney stones.

Spinal discs in the body are similar to a sponge surrounded by water. A disc, or a sponge, in a persistent compressed condition pushes out fluid. Conversely, during unloading, when the sponge or disc is allowed to expand, fluids are drawn inward. Spinal disc fluid contains nutrients, so it is important that discs continuously draw in and expel fluids for hydration and health. The process of moving fluids in and out of the discs is imbibition, and is brought about via natural segmental movements of the spinal segments.

Spinal joint health is also dependent on segmental spinal movement. When a joint moves the inner lining of the joint capsule releases hyaluronic acid, which is essential to imbibe fluids into the joint. This fluid is essential for articular cartilage resilience and health.

Another component of spinal health is core strength, which provides muscle balance and motor control. Motor control requires that muscles receive proper sequential sensory feedback from all associated muscles, with the muscles having the greatest number of sensory feedback receptors, mechanoreceptors, providing the greatest amount of feedback. The small core muscles such as the intertransversarii medialis and lateralis, interspinalis, and multifidus are the small deep spinal muscles and have three to four times as many mechanoreceptors as the larger outer muscles. Spinal health requires that these small core muscles remain strong and healthy. Again, strengthening of these muscles can only occur by performing active segmental spinal movement.

While there are many exercises that target the major muscles of the midsection, such as the transversus abdominis, multifidus, internal and external obliques, rectus abdominis, erector spinae (sacrospinalis), and longissimus thoracis, it is more difficult to isolate and strengthen true core muscles of intertransversarii medialis and lateralis, interspinalis, and multifidus. This is because the larger stronger muscles of the midsection effectively “take over” the motion, so the true core muscles are only tangentially involved, if at all.

While there are many devices that make claim to spinal unloading leading to fluid exchange, recreating active segmental movement as the body intended is the most efficient and effective way to improve fluid movement leading to the nutrient exchange of the discs.

As can be seen, there is a need for devices, systems and methods that unload a human spine, and associated exercises, for relieving pain, maintaining and improving muscle and postural balance, and maintaining and improving core strength. It is desirable that the devices and systems are relatively easy to use, store and transport; and are safe and effective. It is desirable that the methods are relatively easy to follow; and are safe and effective. It is desirable that the devices, systems and methods unload the spine of the patient; restore mobility of spinal segments; target muscles for resistance strengthening; allow natural diaphragm breathing; provide gentle tensile loading in line with the collagen fibers of the disc; mimic the natural movements of the spine of compression and unloading by extension, flexion and side-bending; and facilitate the natural ability of the spinal discs to imbibe fluids.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A spinal unloading system generally includes a harness configured to wrap around a human patient's lumbar or cervical region and including multiple attachment points for connecting elastomeric bands. Elastomeric bands can be attached to exert pulling forces along longitudinal axis of body, which results in unloading of spine. Elastomeric bands can also be attached to exert force while patient is engaged in a “hip thrusting” motion, thereby strengthening core muscles. The system can include all components for use in a clinical setting such as a physician, physical therapist or chiropractor's office, or can include components for use in a home setting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a patient using an unloading system in a clinical setting;

FIG. 2 depicts some components of an unloading system;

FIG. 3 is a close-up depiction of a patient with a harness at the lumbar position showing anterior securing straps 26 relative to posterior V-straps;

FIG. 4 depicts a patient preparing to use an unloading system with a harness at the lumbar position;

FIG. 5 is a close-up depiction of a patient using an unloading system with elastomeric bands secured to a harness and a core board;

FIG. 6 depicts an alternative method with a patient using an unloading system with an anchor secured in a door jamb; and

FIG. 7 depicts an alternative method with a patient using an unloading system with a harness used as a cervical harness.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.

The following structure numbers shall apply to the following structures among the various FIGS.:

-   10—Unloading system; -   20—Harness; -   21—Terminal ends; -   22—D-ring; -   23—Fabric loop; -   25—Buckling strap; -   26—Securing strap; -   27—Loop; -   28—Upper portion; -   29—Bottom portion; -   30—V-strap; -   31—Apex; -   40—Core board; -   50—Handle; -   60—Elastomeric loop; -   61—Upper elastomeric band; -   63—Lower elastomeric band; -   64—Strap segment; -   65—Anchor; -   66—Carabiner; -   68—Hook; -   70—Wall mount; -   72—Scale; -   74—Winch; -   75—Winch line; -   76—Mobilization pad; -   78—No slip pad; and -   80—Pad.

Broadly, the present inventions relate to devices and systems that unload a human lumbar or cervical spine, and associated exercises. As used herein, “unload”, “unloaded” and the like refer to the state or condition in which there is no apparent loading force of gravity acting on the spine. Unloading may exist because the force is eliminated, locally weak, or because the body is position horizontally, thereby eliminating the vertical loading forces of gravity. Methods of the present invention have therapeutic and maintenance applications. As used herein “therapeutic” shall refer to circumstances where the devices and methods of the present invention are employed for improving, arresting and/or slowing the progression of at least one specific pathology. As used herein “maintenance” shall refer to circumstances where devices and methods of the present invention are employed for improving, arresting and/or slowing the progression of non-pathological based decline, for example related to age.

It should be understood that the specification describes devices and methods relating to spinal unloading, but that those devices and methods are equally applicable to spinal stretching and core strengthening.

The present inventions can be configured for use by a patient in a non-clinical setting, or for use in a clinical setting. A non-clinical configuration is suitable, for example, for a patient who has been instructed by their clinician to exercise at home as part of a therapeutic protocol. FIGS. 6 and 7 generally pertain to non-clinical configurations. A clinical configuration would generally be employed in a clinical setting, for example under the direct supervision of a physical therapist or chiropractor, and can be found in FIGS. 1, 4 and 5. These settings and configurations shouldn't be considered limiting, but rather to provide a context for their use.

Referring to FIG. 1, one clinical configuration of unloading system 10 generally positions a patient on core board 40 and has them holding onto handles 50 for stabilization. Handles 50 preferably pivot between a horizontal positon and upwardly to a position substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the patient. Harness 20 is wrapped around their waist and upper legs, and secured in position using buckling strap 25. In this configuration securing straps 26 are attached to hook 68 which is attached to elastomeric loop 60 on the patient's anterior side, while V-strap 30 is attached to a second hook 68 which is attached to same elastomeric loop 60 on patient's posterior side. Securing straps 26 preferably terminate in loops 27 for attaching to hook 68 or likewise. Shared elastomeric loop 60 is attached to carabiner 66 (or hook 68), which is attached to winch line 75, which feeds into winch 74, which is attached to scale 72, which is attached to strap segment 64, which is attached to wall bar 70. Longitudinal pulling forces are exerted on the patient by the stretched elastomeric member, and these pulling forces unload the spine. Unloading tension can be increased or decreased on patient by adjusting length of loose end of winch line. Scale 72 indicates magnitude of force exerted.

While it is preferred that the tension-exerting means is an elastomeric loop, it should be understood that other tension-exerting means, such as non-looping elastomeric bands, springs and other resilient bodies, and traction from weights or mechanical means are also within the scope of the invention.

Mobilization pad 76 is preferred for certain applications. It can allow a therapist to palpate specific segments of the spine during treatment to facilitate specific vertebral movement; allow for the spine to move through its natural movements while in the unloaded position; facilitate pelvic rotation similar to the pelvic motion of gait; specifically mobilize the spine into extension; and/or allow the patient to perform the exercises in a positon of extension to a neutral spinal position to insure avoidance of flexion loading on the discs.

FIG. 2 depicts some components of unloading system 10. Harness 20 is primarily constructed of an elongated body having upper portion 28, bottom portion 29 and two terminal ends 21. V-strap 30 is connected central bottom portion of harness 20, such that when a patient puts on the harness and secures it in place using buckling strap 25, V-strap 30 hangs downwardly on posterior side of patient and terminates in apex 31, which preferably includes D-ring 22. Securing straps 26 each preferably extend outwardly from terminal ends of harness 20. Terminal ends of securing straps 26 can be brought together, thereby resembling the V-strap except on the anterior side. In a preferred embodiment, securing straps 26 are contiguous with buckling straps 25 and terminate in loops 27 for attaching to hook 68 or carabiner 66. Buckling straps 25 preferably include closure means such as buckle, which is shown but not numbered.

In use, securing strap 26 and V-strap 30 are secured with carabiner 66 or hook 68 for subsequent attachment to elastomeric structure such as elastomeric loop 60. In this configuration equal pulling force is exerted on both posterior and anterior lumbar regions when system is in use. Orientation of securing strap 26 relative to V-strap 30 is also depicted in FIG. 3.

In a preferred embodiment, the force exerted by elastomeric bands is approximately 25-40% of user's body weight, although this can vary according to patient condition, therapeutic goal and other factors. Preferred elastomeric bands are 1 ¼ inches wide and having a resistance range of 40-80 lbs.; 10 to 35 pounds resistance (½ inch wide); 30 to 60 pounds resistance (¾ inch wide); 50 to 125 pounds resistance (1-¾ inches wide); and/or 65 to 175 pounds resistance (2-½ inches wide). Other elastomeric bands are also within the scope of this invention.

In addition to, or instead of longitudinally applied pulling force discussed with respect to FIG. 1, patient can apply force to lumbar region which pulls them towards core board 40. Referring to FIG. 4, upper elastomeric band 61 and/or lower elastomeric band 63 are connected to D-rings 22 of core board. This FIG. show a patient on position on core board 40, but without engaging upper or lower elastomeric bands.

FIG. 5 shows patient on core board with upper elastomeric band 61 and lower elastomeric band 63 each engaged with harness 20. This allows additional core strengthening via specific motions such as hip thrusting, a “hula” motion, raising a leg and performing those motions, and other directed movements.

FIG. 6 depicts a non-clinical configuration for lumbar unloading. It can be used with or without core board 40. Similar to the clinical version, unloading tension is applied to harness 20 which is worn around waist. However, instead of elastomeric members being attached to a winch, scale and wall bar, the assembly is attached to anchor 65 which is cinched in a closed door. A patient may decrease or increase unloading tension by moving body closer to or further away from door, respectively, and/or using elastomeric bands having different resilient strengths.

Referring to FIG. 7, a patient using unloading system 10 for cervical unloading can lie on the floor with anchor 65 cinched between door and door jamb when door is shut. Anchor 65 connects to hook 69, which connects to carabiner 66, which attaches to upper elastomeric band 61, which attaches to harness 20. In a preferred embodiment carabiner 66 is integrated with upper elastomeric band 61 to form a unitary structure. In this non-clinical configuration a patient can focus on unloading of cervical spine by gently pulling head upward and away from body.

Although cinching anchor in a door is a preferred way to stabilize the unloading system shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, it should be understood that a variety of other stabilization means are within the scope of this invention. Other stabilization means include stationary attachment sites such as wall-mounted hooks, or portable racks having attachment sites at various heights.

In use, a patient with compromised spinal movement and/or function is identified. Someone with compromised lumbar spinal movement could exhibit segmental hypomobility of the lumbar vertebrae restricting segmental movement into spinal extension. Someone with compromised lumbar spinal function may exhibit back pain, hip pain, leg pain, difficulty bending, difficulty lifting, difficulty with prolonged standing, difficulty with prolonged sitting, and/or difficulty with prolonged walking. Someone with compromised cervical spinal movement may exhibit neck pain, arm pain, shoulder pain, mid back pain, difficulty bending head side to side, difficulty reading, and/or difficulty rotating head to the side.

Next, a patient's treatment protocol is established by a licensed practitioner based on the individual's specific presentation of objective findings.

In one method harness 20 is fitted around the waist of a patient, the patient is positioned on core board 40, elastomeric loop 60 is attached to loops 27 and apex 31 and anchored by, for example, wall mount 70 or anchor 65 in door jamb. Elastomeric loop 60 is then elongated by winch, patient scooting away from anchor, or by other means. The elongated elastomeric loop exerts unloading tension on patient's spine.

The method optionally or alternatively includes attaching upper elastomeric bands 61 and/or lower elastomeric bands 63 to core board 40, and preferably performing a series of thrusting or “hula” motions to strengthen core.

Patients are regularly monitored to confirm they are progressing towards their clinical goals, and to determine when their clinical goals have been achieved.

It should be understood that the foregoing relates to exemplary embodiments of the invention and that modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims. By way of example, material, sizes, volumes and mechanisms can differ. Terms such as “substantially” and the like shall mean within reasonable bounds when considering limitations such as machines, materials, manufacturing methods, and people. By way of example, a “substantially smooth” surface means there are no intentional bumps or irregularities. All ranges set forth herein include the endpoints as well as all increments there between, even if not specifically stated. By way of example 1 to 2 inches includes 1 inch, 1.000001 inches and so forth. Finally, unless otherwise stated or contrary to common sense, “approximate” and the like shall mean +/−10%. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A spinal unloading system including: A. a harness configured to be worn around the waist of a human subject, said harness including an anterior attachment site and a posterior attachment site; B. an elastomeric member engaged with said anterior attachment site and said posterior attachment site; and C. an anchor connected to said elastomeric member, wherein said elastomeric member exerts longitudinal pulling forces on said human when said elastomeric member is stretched.
 2. The spinal unloading system of claim 1 wherein said elastomeric member is an elastomeric loop.
 3. The spinal unloading system of claim 1 wherein said anchor is a wall mount.
 4. The spinal unloading system of claim 3 further comprising a winch positioned between said elastomeric member and said wall mount.
 5. The spinal unloading system of claim 4 further comprising a scale positioned between said winch and said wall mount.
 6. The spinal unloading system of claim 1 further including a core board positioned below said harness.
 7. The spinal unloading system of claim 6 wherein said core board further includes two handles, said handles configured to pivot upwardly to a position substantially perpendicular to said core board.
 8. A harness configured for use in a spinal unloading system for humans including: A. An elongated body including an upper portion, bottom portion, and two terminal ends; B. Two securing straps, each extending from different terminal ends; C. A V-strap extending from said bottom portion; and D. A buckling strap attached to said elongated body, wherein said buckling strap releasably attaches said harness to the midsection of a human.
 9. The harness of claim 8 wherein the terminal end of each securing strap is a loop.
 10. The harness of claim 8 wherein the apex of said V-strap includes a D-ring.
 11. The harness of claim 8 wherein said elongated body includes a plurality of D-rings positioned in a line.
 12. The harness of claim 8 wherein each of said securing straps is contiguous with a portion of said buckling strap.
 13. The harness of claim 11 wherein said D-rings are positioned on said securing straps.
 14. A spinal unloading method including the non-sequential acts of: A. Securing a harness around the waist of a patient; B. Positioning said patient on a substantially horizontally oriented core board; C. Attaching a first elastomeric member to said harness; D. Attaching said first elastomeric member to an anchor; and E. Elongating said elastomeric member.
 15. The spinal unloading method of claim 14 further including the act of attaching a second elastomeric member between said harness and said core board.
 16. The spinal unloading method of claim 15 further including the act of causing the hips of said patient to raise and lower repeatedly.
 17. The spinal unloading method of claim 14 wherein said act of attaching said first elastomeric member to an anchor includes the act of connecting said elastomeric member to a door jamb.
 18. A spinal stretching method including the non-sequential acts of: A. Securing a harness around the waist of a patient; B. Positioning said patient on a substantially horizontally oriented core board; C. Attaching a first elastomeric member to said harness; D. Attaching said first elastomeric member to an anchor; and E. Elongating said elastomeric member.
 19. A core strengthening method including the non-sequential acts of: A. Securing a harness around the waist of a patient; B. Positioning said patient on a substantially horizontally oriented core board; C. Attaching a first elastomeric member to said harness; D. Attaching said first elastomeric member to an anchor; E. Elongating said elastomeric member; F. Attaching a second elastomeric member between said harness and said core board; and G. Causing the hips of said patient to raise and lower repeatedly. 